Pittsburgh, PA — After 13 years of grit, relentless energy, and more than a few sticks of gum chewed on the Heinz Field sideline, a true Pittsburgh Steelers legend is officially moving on.
Danny Smith, the fiery special teams coordinator who became synonymous with “Steelers football” under Mike Tomlin’s tenure, is leaving the Steel City to join the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as their new special teams coordinator. The move marks the end of an era for a coach who was far more than just a position specialist — he was the heartbeat of Pittsburgh’s third phase and a defining voice in the locker room.
A Culture Builder, Not Just a Coach
Since joining the Steelers in 2013, Danny Smith brought an intensity to the sideline that few coaches could match. He didn’t just coach special teams — he turned it into a weapon. Under his leadership, Pittsburgh consistently ranked among the league’s best in coverage units, return efficiency, and game-changing plays that often swung momentum in critical moments.
But Smith’s impact went far beyond X’s and O’s.
“Danny coached with a passion that resonated from the veterans down to the rookies fighting for a roster spot,” said one former Steelers player. “He made you believe that special teams wasn’t just a phase of the game — it was YOUR chance to prove you belonged in the NFL.”
Smith’s coaching philosophy was built on accountability, effort, and an old-school toughness that aligned perfectly with the Steelers’ identity. Whether it was a blocked punt, a clutch tackle on a kickoff, or a momentum-shifting return, Danny’s units consistently delivered when it mattered most.
His signature? Pacing the sideline with intensity, a piece of gum working overtime in his jaw, barking instructions and encouragement with equal fire. Players didn’t just respect Danny Smith — they ran through walls for him.
Five Decades of Excellence
Smith’s departure from Pittsburgh doesn’t mark the end of his career — far from it. With five decades of coaching experience across the NFL, he’s one of the most respected special teams minds in football history.
Before joining the Steelers, Smith coached special teams for the Washington Football Team (2004-2012) and had stints with multiple franchises dating back to the 1980s. His longevity, adaptability, and consistent excellence have made him a sought-after coach throughout his career.
Now, at an age when most coaches have long since retired, Smith is taking his expertise to Tampa Bay, where the Buccaneers hope his experience and leadership can stabilize a special teams unit that struggled in recent seasons.
“The Buccaneers are getting one of the most respected minds in the business,” said Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin in a statement. “Danny’s impact on this organization goes far beyond wins and losses. He built a culture of accountability and toughness that will remain part of who we are long after he’s gone.”
A New Era in Pittsburgh
Smith’s departure comes as the Steelers enter a period of transition. With changes across the coaching staff and the franchise navigating life in a post-Ben Roethlisberger, post-Mike Tomlin era (following Tomlin’s recent resignation), Pittsburgh is rebuilding its identity from top to bottom.
Losing a coach of Danny Smith’s caliber — someone who represented continuity, tradition, and the “Steelers Way” — is no small loss.
But Smith leaves behind a legacy that will endure. He mentored countless players, many of whom credit him with extending their NFL careers by excelling on special teams. He created a standard of excellence that became a trademark of Pittsburgh football. And he did it all with a passion and authenticity that made him beloved in the locker room and respected across the league.
A Steeler Forever
As Danny Smith heads south to Tampa Bay, Steelers Nation is saying goodbye to a coach who embodied everything the black and gold represent: toughness, discipline, and an unrelenting will to win.
“To the man who lived and breathed Pittsburgh football through every blocked punt and clutch return — thank you,” the Steelers said in an official statement.
“Danny Smith will always have a home in the Steel City.”
For 13 years, Danny brought the fire. For five decades, he’s been one of the best to ever do it.
The Buccaneers are lucky to have him.
But in Pittsburgh, he’ll always be family.
